Traffic chaos ahead as quays and major bridge shut down

Motorists travelling through Dublin this bank holiday weekend are warned to expect major disruption as the city's main thoroughfare will be closed to facilitate works on the Luas Cross City line.

The north and south quays will be closed at O’Connell Bridge, blocking east and westbound traffic. There will be limited north-south access across the bridge.

The restrictions will begin at 8pm on Friday July 29 and last until 6am on Tuesday August 2.

If you’re travelling through the city on those days, expect major traffic diversions and delays throughout the weekend.

Some 100,000 sports fans are expected to attend matches at Croke Park and the Aviva stadium over the weekend, and motorists will see a series of electronic notices along the M50 and other routes about how to avoid the quays.

Car park access in the city will be maintained, and a range of public transport enhancements are being offered to help ease the disruption.

Additional Luas and Dart services will be in operation on Sunday and Monday, and children will be allowed to travel for free with a valid Child Leap Card for the entire weekend.

To encourage motorists to use public transport, there will also be free parking on Saturday, Sunday and Monday at Luas and Irish Rail park-and-ride sites within the Short Hop Fare zone.

There will also be diversions on many Dublin Bus services and passengers are advised to check their travel routes in advance.